December 20, 2025
Hello Dear Readers,
I had the privilege of visiting a Creative Writing 11 class this week, and what an experience it was. The students welcomed me into their creative space and shared pieces of their writing that blew me away. The quality was remarkable—not just polished sentences, but vivid, living images that pulled me straight into their worlds. I could feel the texture of their settings, hear the voices of their characters, and sense the emotions woven through every line.
What struck me most was the passion behind their work. These students aren’t writing for marks—they’re writing because they love the craft. You can see it in the risks they take with language, the originality of their ideas, and the energy that leaps off the page. They’re chasing that thrill of creation, that rush you get when words start to flow and suddenly you’re somewhere else entirely. It’s inspiring to witness, and it reminds me why storytelling matters—because it’s not just about grades or assignments; it’s about expression, connection, and the joy of making something that feels alive.
That visit made me reflect on why we write. There’s something almost electric about it—the way words start to flow and time disappears. When you hit that rhythm, the rush is real. For me, it feels almost as powerful as carving through untouched powder on a bluebird day with fat skis underfoot. (That was yesterday, by the way. Writing gives me the same thrill—just without the cardio workout.)
Unlike the students, Aidan and I write knowing someone will read our stories. That changes everything. It adds a spark, a sense of purpose. Every sentence matters because it’s not just for us—it’s for you. That knowledge pushes us to raise the bar, to make every word count. It’s a challenge we embrace, and honestly, it’s what makes the process so addictive.
So here’s my question for you: what gives you that same rush? Whether it’s writing, skiing, painting, or something else entirely—what’s your creative powder day? I’d love to hear.
Happy reading this week. And the best of the season to you and your family.
Warm regards,
Paula and Aidan
P.S. Rebels of Halklyen is on sale over the holiday season:
P.P.S. Grab a copy of The Codebreakers’ Quest by J. C Everleigh the popular author of Hacking the Mysteries of Cryptopolis.
And there are enough free books in the Sci-Fi Fantasy Giveaway to keep everyone busy over the holidays.
Thanks for reading Chainmail & Chapters: Storycraft! This post is public so feel free to share it and earn free books for doing so!